Let's Talk Grammar: giraffe
The Grammar Bit!
Read the three sentences opposite. They all use direct speech to tell the reader exactly what was said by the speaker. Remember that inverted commas (or speech marks) are used to indicate this. (“…..”)
Notice how in each sentence we are given information about what the speaker was doing (the reporting clause) as he was speaking. Including actions is a great way to bring characters to life. Furthermore, it will stop you from writing speech “ping pong” (where conversation goes back and forth without any narration in between).
Scintillating Sentences
1) “Can we play the film back in slow motion?” asked the cameraman, who was still trembling with excitement.
2) “I think it’s dead,” whispered the cameraman, as he zoomed in on the fallen giant.
3) Having just entered the camouflaged hide, Martyn beckoned the others in and said excitedly, “Quick – a rival male is approaching!”
Now use the ‘Express Yourself!’ prompt below to read aloud each sentence with the speech spoken expressively and different to the way you deliver the reporting clause (bold).
Time to Talk – Express Yourself! 🗣️
When a giraffe makes a mistake, it rarely apologises. This is because it takes a long time to swallow its pride!